THE MUSIC ACADEMY

Under the scheme introduced from 1993, two more persons with distinguished service in the field of music are being selected by the Academy and conferred the title Sangita Kala Acharya.

It has always been the desire of the Academy to introduce young musicians of promise, to the public. Two series of concerts are exclusively devoted to young artistes every year. There are special prizes to encourage junior talent (both vocal and instrumental). Besides, the Academy has been awarding scholarships to deserving juniors. Through the Spirit of Youth-festival of Dance and Music, conducted in October every year, nearly 40 young artistes (vocal, instrumental and dance) are projected by the Academy.

Under the R. R. Talent Promotion Scheme, two young and talented artistes are selected by the Academy and given a stipend for two years. They are required to undergo special coaching under an eminent musician nominated by the Academy. At the end of two years, they are presented in concert at the Academy, with due publicity.

Lectures are delivered by experts on the theory of music and various topics of musical interest. Demonstrations are presented to illustrate the different aspects of practical music and dance. Besides talks and demonstrations, performances of western music are also occasionally arranged by the Academy.

The Academy organizes music competitions for nearly 35 items, every year. It also gives financial aid to indigent musicians who have done service to the cause of music. Eleven musicians are now receiving an allowance of Rs.300/- per month.

The Academy is also continuing its ambitious programme of conducting research on music. The first work undertaken by the research wing was the publication of the book The Ragas of Sangita Saramrta written by King Tulaja I. The publication consists of two parts in a single volume. The first part consists of 48 ragas as dealt with by late Sangita Kalanidhi T.V.Subba Rao. The second part contains the treatment of 61 ragas dealt with by Dr. S. R. Janakiraman. The other publications of the research wing are Lakshana Gitas and Ragalakshanas (dealing with 50 ragas).

The Academy's Teacher's College of Music has been a nurturing ground for Carnatic vocalists, instrumentalists and scholars. There is a 1st year Pre-certificate class, 2nd year Pre-certificate class and the Certificate class. Classes in Violin, Veena and Mridangam (South Indian stringed and percussion instruments) are offered. Also offered is a two-day-per-week beginner's course in vocals.

Address: Music Academy, 115 E, TTK Road, Chennai 600 014.
Phone: 811 2231 / 5162

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